DadFest is all about men and their families

June 16, 2013

It was all about dads and celebrating the role they play in life at DadFest at First Assembly of God Church Saturday.

DadFest is a celebration of dads and their day, said Jim Lee, one of the men in charge of the event and First Assembly of God Church member. "We have all sorts of dad and boy things, things for dads to bring their kids to," he said.

Activities at DadFest, free to the public, included a motorcycle run, a pinewood derby, kite flying, fish guiding, face painting, inflatables for kids to jump on, lunch, a display of classic cars and farm machinery, music, games, contests and a car wash.

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Jill Hambek/MDNClassic cars were lined up on one side of the parking lot at First Assembly of God Church in Minot as part of the annual DadFest event.

Lee said they tried to have something for everyone at DadFest. The main goal was to provide an atmosphere that would bring value and significance to men and their families.

John Brady, senior pastor at First Assembly of God, said they wanted to have an event to celebrate dads, men and their families. "We wanted to bring a happy day for families," he added. "It's all about the families and kids."

Usually, DadFest is held across the street from the church and they set up a tent, but Lee said it was too wet this year to put the stakes in so the event was held in the parking lot instead. DadFest started eight or nine years ago, he continued, and began as a little event that took place on Sunday after the church services and has grown over the years. Now DadFest typically brings in 300 to 500 people, depending on the weather, Lee added.

People attending DadFest tend to like the event because it's something that's positive and family oriented, Brady said. It's a very casual, family-related atmosphere, he said. He said the classic cars are on display every year and the kites, from Garrison, are for sale each year as well.

"This is about connecting and relationships and that's what people enjoy," he said.

One of the dads participating in DadFest, Todd Conrey, seemed to be enjoying his time at the event as well. This year was his third time attending DadFest. He said it was a fun event for the kids and adults. Conrey's son participated in the pinewood derby.

"It's just fun for the kids and I enjoy coming here and hanging out with everybody," Conrey said.

DadFest is an important event because, according to Brady, the goal is to bring back the spiritual significance and value of dad as the man of the house and breadwinner.

A man who loves God, loves his family, is full of spiritual character and integrity are some qualities that make a good dad, Brady explained. "We want to highlight and encourage that," he continued. "We want to lift dad up." Brady said they want to put the value back on men, whether they're single or married.

"We want to encourage love, honor and integrity," Brady said. "We want to get God back in the house. If you have God in your house, marriage and family, then everyone will be happy. We can celebrate God's goodness together."